Wood Ducks are the kings of the wetland and with proper design, well-placed and maintained nest boxes can boost population numbers. They aren't the easiest bird to coax into a box though, as they prefer specific habitat and need certain elements to thrive. But, if you know what to look for, a wood duck nesting box can be a rewarding project and a chance to get hands-on experience in wildlife management.

Unlike bluebird houses that are relatively small, inexpensive and can be set up in anyone's yard, a wood duck box requires a significant commitment of time and money. But, the payoff is well worth it. While duckling https://nestvui.com/yen-tinh-che/ from man-made nesting boxes is a small percentage of that of natural cavities, the extra effort can help preserve the species and provide a fun, hands-on opportunity for any outdoor enthusiast.

Designed to be a home to Wood Ducks and other cavity-nesting birds, the box is made from 3/4" rough-cut cedar or other exterior grade plywood. It has a door in the front with a 2" x 4" oval entrance hole. The side walls and roof are angled outward to prevent rain from entering the nest box. A kerf cut ladder is attached below the entrance hole to allow young ducklings to climb out of the box.

A predator guard is included to prevent raccoons and other pests from climbing over the box. A piece of 1/4" hardware cloth is also sewed below the entrance hole to keep ducklings from falling out the bottom of the box. The bottom of the box is covered with 3" of wood shavings.

Boxes are best located in shallow bodies of water with 50-75% vegetative cover. The coverage provides protection, camouflages eggs from predation and helps regulate the nest box's interior temperature during hot summer months. It also allows the mother to travel less distance from her nest to lead her ducklings into water.

The wood duck is a precocial breed and the ducklings leave their mother's nest soon after hatching. In the wild, Wood Duck chicks are able to fend for themselves in the water, but in nest boxes the mother must tend to her young and may be more vulnerable to predators on land. It is important that the nest site have ample, high vegetation to protect the family from predators until the ducklings are ready to fend for themselves.

A hen will abandon her nest if it is contaminated with old shells and debris from previous clutches. It is important to clean the box each winter before it starts being used by inserting a small rake or brush into the nest to remove any leftover material and add fresh, clean wood shavings.

When erecting your wood duck nesting box, consider adding a piece of 8 foot long cypress or metal highway sign pole to the back of the nest box. This allows the box to be mounted in the ground and is a good way to keep it away from potential hazards for the ducklings, such as busy roads and street curbs. The angled post will also allow you to attach a predator guard without drilling through the box. Lag bolts, not nails, are recommended for mounting the box to the post.